The word “porridge” has always made me think of something simple and soothing — the kind of dependable comfort we all need in a slightly chaotic world.
So it felt perfectly fitting that The Golden Spurtle — Australian Filmmaker, Constantine Costi’s documentary about the 30th annual World Porridge-Making Championship in the Scottish village of Carrbridge — has exactly that same cosy charm. It’s not loud or flashy, but much like a well-made bowl of oats, it quietly hits the spot.
Porridge really is the heart of Scotland — and home of the spurtle. And yes, I have just learnt, you must stir clockwise or you’ll “let the devil in.” Consider me converted!
The film is a genuinely lovely watch.
It introduces you to Carrbridge with the kind of gentle affection that makes you wish you were wandering those streets yourself. Perhaps walking past the pub, the cemetery, and into the cosy village hall.
Then come the competitors from far and wide: big personalities and friendly faces. There’s even Aussie taco chef Toby Wilson, who carts his portable kitchen across the globe just to take part. You can’t help but root for him.
By the time the big day arrives, the hall is buzzing. There’s a whisky tasting happening on the side (because it’s Scotland), so a toast is raised to “The Porridge.” One kitchen crew member, with a cheeky sparkle in her eye, proudly calls their space “the boiler house of the world porridge championships,” and honestly — I believed her.
Thirty competitors get thirty minutes before the field is trimmed to six. Judging is based on taste, texture and colour, and the top title goes to whoever perfects the traditional trio of oatmeal, water and salt.
What began as a tiny local event has grown into a highlight of Scotland’s food scene — warm, charming and full of heart.
T-oat-ally heartwarming!